WDH Frame clamps....

[Trippy1313]

Had a question. My Hitch setup up is the round spring bars with chains. I've set them up before no problem.

When I went to put the clamps on our new trailer, I noticed tongue has a tube frame where the trailers I've done before usually had the traditional square U.

I figured no big deal, but as I went to tighten to proper torque specs, it started caving in the frame. So i just stopped, and felt the clamp, felt tight, so I left it for now.

Do you guys just keep tightening to torque specs while caving in the frame rails? Doesn't seem right.

I was considering either getting a plate between the bolt and frame to spread the pressure, or drilling the clamp bigger to tap in a 5/8" or 3/4" bolt for more surface area than the 1/2" bolts currently used.

[Rustic Eagle]

Originally Posted by Trippy1313

snip...... but as I went to tighten to proper torque specs, it started caving in the frame.....

I agree, not a good condition.

To respond directly to your question could you provide the brand/model of your WDH, and year/model TT.

If possible posting a side view photo (close up) of your WDH with your TV/TT hitched would be helpful, but not required.

Bob

[bankr63]

Those bolts don't need to be very tight. From the Husky Roundbar hitch instructions:

Turn the hex bolt located on the rear of the lift bracket until it contacts the trailer frame, then tighten ¼ turn with a wrench. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN.

Husky doesn't give a torque spec, but 1/4 turn after contact isn't going to much torque at all. Gravity keeps it in place, I think the bolt is simply to keep it from sliding along the frame rail and moving out of position.

[Rustic Eagle]

Originally Posted by bankr63

snip...... Husky doesn't give a torque spec, but 1/4 turn after contact isn't going to much torque at all.....snip

I also initially assumed the OP was referring to the snap-up bracket mounting (single lag bolt @ 1/4 turn)...., but the "torque specs" statement brought pause to my assumption.

Bob

[Trippy1313]

Hahaha. Well guess what? I re-read everything in my installation instructions...

I have the Curt hitch yes with snap-up brackets.

I read it says tighten 1/2" bolts to 75lbs.

After re-reading it also does say "turn bolt until contacts the frame, then 1/4 turn more."

Great. Well, easy solution. I missed it because the first time I read through it all, but then part that says "tighten 1/2" bolts to 75lbs" is what stuck.

1/4 turn is definitely not 75lbs. And being that they are mainly held in but gravity and chain tension, that why i was fine with towing it, not really being sure of if it was too tight or not. Thanks guys. When I get home I'll be loosening and re-tightening properly.

[Rustic Eagle]

Originally Posted by Trippy1313

snip..... Thanks guys. When I get home I'll be loosening and re-tightening properly.

On some of the heavier loaded tongue weight applications (1,200lbs plus) it is recommended to bolt the snap-up bracket (using two clearance holes provided) to the frame to minimize the bracket form sliding on along the frame and bending away from the frame do to the heavier chain pull forces.

I have my snap-up brackets bolted (2-places) and I use a backer plate as well....., the existing 1/2" lag bolt has contact with the backer plate.

The following photo was my prior '05' Eagle 1,300lb tongue weight, but since I used the same WDH (Reese Dual Cam) and had the hardware I did the same on my present '18' Jay Flight 1,100lb tongue weight.





Bob